Manifold and methods of manufacturing same

ABSTRACT

According to one aspect, a manifold defines an internal region and a first inside surface. A fluid liner is permanently bonded to the first inside surface, and dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flow therethrough while the permanent bond is maintained. According to another aspect, an end cap is connected to the elongated member and defines a second inside surface. The fluid liner is engaged with each of first and second inside surfaces, and defines a third inside surface. A first thickness of the fluid liner is defined between the first and third inside surfaces, a second thickness of the fluid liner is defined between the second and third inside surfaces, and the second thickness is greater than the first thickness. According to another aspect, a plug opening is formed through the fluid liner, and a liner plug extends within the plug opening.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. patentapplication No. 61/590,657, filed Jan. 25, 2012, the entire disclosureof which is incorporated herein by reference.

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. patentapplication No. 61/645,407, filed May 10, 2012, the entire disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference.

This application claims the benefit of the filing date of U.S. patentapplication No. 61/650,223, filed May 22, 2012, the entire disclosure ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates in general to manifolds and, in particular, toimproved manifolds for pumps such as, for example, reciprocating pumps,and to methods of manufacturing such manifolds.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

A manifold may supply fluid to a pump such as, for example, areciprocating pump, and may distribute the fluid to different pressureschambers within the pump. In some cases, pressure fluctuations occurwithin the manifold, causing an uneven distribution of fluid flow withinthe pump, as well as excessive wear and tear on components of the pump.Additionally, if the fluid contains entrained solid particulates, suchas when the fluid is drilling fluid or mud, an excessive amount of theentrained solid particulates may collect or accumulate in the manifold,contributing to the uneven distribution of fluid flow within the pump,and wear and tear on the pump components. Therefore, what is needed isan apparatus, manifold or method that addresses one or more of theforegoing issues, among others.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, there is provided a manifold through which fluid isadapted to flow, the manifold includes an elongated member at leastpartially defining an internal region through which the fluid is adaptedto flow, a longitudinal axis, and a first inside surface, the elongatedmember includes one or more inlets via which the fluid flows into theinternal region; and one or more outlets via which the fluid flows outof the internal region; and a fluid liner disposed within the internalregion and permanently bonded to the first inside surface of theelongated member, wherein the fluid liner dynamically responds topressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough while the permanent bond between the fluid liner and thefirst inside surface of the elongated member is maintained.

In an exemplary embodiment, the one or more outlets of the elongatedmember include two outlets; wherein the manifold further includes tworadially-extending openings formed through the fluid liner and generallyaligned with the two outlets, respectively; and wherein the tworadially-extending openings are axially spaced from each other so that aportion of the fluid liner extends axially between the tworadially-extending openings.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the manifold includes two tubesaxially spaced from each other and extending from the elongated member,the two tubes defining two fluid passages, respectively; wherein the twofluid passages are generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively,and thus with the two radially-extending openings, respectively, so thateach of the two fluid passages are in fluid communication with theinternal region.

In another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes two helical vanesdisposed in the two fluid passages, respectively; wherein the twohelical vanes are adapted to induce vortices in fluid flow through thetwo fluid passages, respectively.

In certain exemplary embodiments, the manifold includes a first plugopening formed through the fluid liner; and a first liner plug extendingwithin the first plug opening.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first liner plug dynamically responds topressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough.

In another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes a first stemextending from the elongated member; and first bull plug assemblyconnected to the first stem, the first plug assembly includes the firstliner plug; and a first head from which the first liner plug extends.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the first plug assembly furtherincludes a first post extending from the head and into the first linerplug.

In an exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes a second plug openingformed through the fluid liner and axially spaced from the first plugopening so that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially between thefirst and second plug openings; and a second liner plug extending withinthe second plug opening.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is formed of aresilient material that includes a nitrile rubber material; and whereinthe fluid liner is permanently bonded to the first inside surface usingat least a vulcanizable adhesive compound.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes an end capconnected to the elongated member, the end cap defining a second insidesurface to which the fluid liner is permanently bonded; wherein thefluid liner defines a third inside surface within the internal region.

In an exemplary embodiment, a first thickness of the fluid liner isdefined between the first inside surface of the elongated member and thethird inside surface of the fluid liner; wherein a second thickness ofthe fluid liner is defined between the second inside surface of the endcap and the third inside surface of the fluid liner; and wherein thesecond thickness of the fluid liner is greater than the first thicknessof the fluid liner.

In another exemplary embodiment, the portion of the fluid linerpermanently bonded to the first inside surface of the elongated memberhas a longitudinally-extending taper, the longitudinally-extending taperdefining a taper angle between the longitudinal axis and the thirdinside surface, the taper angle ranging from greater than 0 degrees toless than about 70 degrees measured from the longitudinal axis.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the manifold is adapted to beconnected to a fluid cylinder of a reciprocating pump.

In a second aspect, there is provided a manifold through which fluid isadapted to flow, the manifold includes an elongated member, theelongated member defining a longitudinal axis and a first insidesurface; an end cap connected to the elongated member, the end capdefining a second inside surface; an internal region at least partiallydefined by the elongated member and the end cap; and a fluid linerdisposed within the internal region and engaged with each of first andsecond inside surfaces, the fluid liner defining a third inside surfacewithin the internal region; wherein the fluid liner dynamically respondsto pressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough; wherein a first thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the first inside surface of the elongated member and the thirdinside surface of the fluid liner; wherein a second thickness of thefluid liner is defined between the second inside surface of the end capand the third inside surface of the fluid liner; and wherein the secondthickness of the fluid liner is greater than the first thickness of thefluid liner.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is permanently bonded toeach of the first and second inside surfaces; and wherein the fluidliner dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internalregion during fluid flow therethrough while the permanent bond betweenthe fluid liner and each of the first and second inside surfaces ismaintained.

In another exemplary embodiment, the portion of the fluid liner engagedwith the first inside surface has a longitudinally-extending taper, thelongitudinally-extending taper defining a taper angle between thelongitudinal axis and the third inside surface, the taper angle rangingfrom greater than 0 degrees to less than about 70 degrees measured fromthe longitudinal axis.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the elongated member include twooutlets; wherein the manifold further includes two radially-extendingopenings formed through the fluid liner and generally aligned with thetwo outlets, respectively; and wherein the two radially-extendingopenings are axially spaced from each other so that a portion of thefluid liner extends axially between the two radially-extending openings.

In an exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes two tubes axiallyspaced from each other and extending from the elongated member, the twotubes defining two fluid passages, respectively, wherein the two fluidpassages are generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively, andthus with the two radially-extending openings, respectively, so thateach of the two fluid passages are in fluid communication with theinternal region; and two helical vanes disposed in the two fluidpassages, respectively.

In another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes a first plugopening formed through the fluid liner; a first stem extending from theelongated member; and a first bull plug assembly connected to the firststem, the first bull plug assembly includes a head; a first liner plugextending from the head and within the first plug opening; and a firstpost extending from the head and into the first liner plug; wherein thefirst liner plug dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations withinthe internal region during fluid flow therethrough.

In a third aspect, there is provided a manifold through which fluid isadapted to flow, the manifold includes an elongated member, theelongated member defining a longitudinal axis and a first insidesurface; an internal region at least partially defined by the elongatedmember; a fluid liner disposed within the internal region and engagedwith the first inside surface of the elongated member; a first plugopening formed through the fluid liner; a first stem extending from theelongated member; and a first bull plug assembly connected to the firststem, the first bull plug assembly includes a first liner plug extendingwithin the first plug opening; wherein each of the fluid liner and thefirst liner plug dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations withinthe internal region during fluid flow therethrough.

In an exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes an end cap connectedto the elongated member, the end cap defining a second inside surface;wherein the internal region is at least partially defined by theelongated member and the end cap; wherein the fluid liner is engagedwith the second inside surface of the end cap; wherein the fluid linerdefines a third inside surface within the internal region; wherein afirst thickness of the fluid liner is defined between the first insidesurface of the elongated member and the third inside surface of thefluid liner; wherein a second thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the second inside surface of the end cap and the third insidesurface of the fluid liner; and wherein the second thickness of thefluid liner is greater than the first thickness of the fluid liner.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is permanently bondedto each of the first and second inside surfaces; and wherein the fluidliner dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internalregion during fluid flow therethrough while the permanent bond betweenthe fluid liner and each of the first and second inside surfaces ismaintained.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the elongated member include twooutlets; wherein the manifold further includes two radially-extendingopenings formed through the fluid liner and generally aligned with thetwo outlets, respectively; and wherein the two radially-extendingopenings are axially spaced from each other so that a portion of thefluid liner extends axially between the two radially-extending openings.

In an exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes two tubes axiallyspaced from each other and extending from the elongated member, the twotubes defining two fluid passages, respectively, wherein the two fluidpassages are generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively, andthus with the two radially-extending openings, respectively, so thateach of the two fluid passages are in fluid communication with theinternal region; and two helical vanes disposed in the two fluidpassages, respectively.

In another exemplary embodiment, the first bull plug assembly furtherincludes a first head from which the first liner plug extends; and afirst post extending from the head and into the first liner plug.

In a fourth aspect, there is provided a method of manufacturing amanifold through which fluid is adapted to flow, the method includesproviding an elongated member, the elongated member at least partiallydefining an internal region through which the fluid is adapted to flow,a longitudinal axis, and a first inside surface, the elongated memberincludes one or more inlets via which the fluid is adapted to flow intothe internal region, and one or more outlets via which the fluid isadapted to flow out of the internal region; disposing a fluid linerwithin the internal region; and permanently bonding the fluid liner tothe first inside surface of the elongated member; wherein the fluidliner is adapted to dynamically respond to pressure fluctuations withinthe internal region during fluid flow therethrough while the permanentbond between the fluid liner and the first inside surface of theelongated member is maintained.

In an exemplary embodiment, disposing the fluid liner within theinternal region includes disposing one or more materials within theinternal region; and forming the fluid liner from the one or morematerials disposed within the internal region.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is permanently bondedto the first inside surface during, after, or during and after, thefluid liner is formed from the material disposed within the internalregion.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the one or more outlets of theelongated member include two outlets; and wherein the method furtherincludes forming two radially-extending openings through the fluid linerso that the two radially-extending openings are generally aligned withthe two outlets, respectively; and the two radially-extending openingsare axially spaced from each other so that a portion of the fluid linerextends axially between the two radially-extending openings.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes extending twoaxially-spaced tubes from the elongated member, the two tubes definingtwo fluid passages, respectively; wherein the two fluid passages aregenerally aligned with the two radially-extending openings,respectively.

In another exemplary embodiment, the method includes disposing twohelical vanes in the two fluid passages, respectively; wherein the twohelical vanes are adapted to induce vortices in fluid flow through thetwo fluid passages, respectively.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the method includes forming a firstplug opening through the fluid liner; and extending a first liner plugwithin the first plug opening.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first liner plug is adapted todynamically respond to pressure fluctuations within the internal regionduring fluid flow therethrough.

In another exemplary embodiment, the method includes extending a firststem from the elongated member; and connecting a first bull plugassembly to the first stem, the first plug assembly includes the firstliner plug and a first head from which the first liner plug extends;wherein the first liner plug extends within the first plug opening inresponse to connecting the first bull plug assembly to the first stem.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the first plug assembly furtherincludes a first post extending from the head and into the first linerplug.

In an exemplary embodiment, the method includes forming a second plugopening through the fluid liner so that the second plug opening isaxially spaced from the first plug opening, and a portion of the fluidliner extends axially between the first and second plug openings; andextending a second liner plug within the second plug opening.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner includes a nitrilerubber material; and wherein the fluid liner is permanently bonded tothe first inside surface using at least a vulcanizable adhesivecompound.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the method includes connecting anend cap to the elongated member, the end cap defining a second insidesurface; and permanently bonding the fluid liner to the second insidesurface of the end cap; wherein the fluid liner defines a third insidesurface within the internal region.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is formed so that a firstthickness of the fluid liner is defined between the first inside surfaceof the elongated member and the third inside surface of the fluid liner;a second thickness of the fluid liner is defined between the secondinside surface of the end cap and the third inside surface of the fluidliner; and the second thickness of the fluid liner is greater than thefirst thickness of the fluid liner.

In another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is formed so that theportion of the fluid liner permanently bonded to the first insidesurface of the elongated member has a longitudinally-extending taper,the longitudinally-extending taper defining a taper angle between thelongitudinal axis and the third inside surface, the taper angle rangingfrom greater than 0 degrees to less than about 70 degrees measured fromthe longitudinal axis.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the manifold is adapted to beconnected to a fluid cylinder of a reciprocating pump.

In a fifth aspect, there is provided a manifold through which fluid isadapted to flow, the fluid containing entrained solid particulates, themanifold includes an elongated member defining a longitudinal axis and afirst inside surface, the elongated member includes a first outlet; aninternal region at least partially defined by the elongated member; afluid liner disposed within the internal region and engaged with thefirst inside surface of the elongated member, wherein the fluid linerdynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internal regionduring fluid flow therethrough; a first tube extending from theelongated member, the first tube defining a first fluid passage in fluidcommunication with the internal region via the first outlet; and a firsthelical vane disposed in the first fluid passage to urge the entrainedsolid particulates to flow through the first fluid passage.

In an exemplary embodiment, the elongated member includes a secondoutlet; and wherein the manifold further includes first and secondradially-extending openings formed through the fluid liner and generallyaligned with the first and second outlets, respectively; and wherein thefirst and second radially-extending openings are axially spaced fromeach other so that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially betweenthe two radially-extending openings.

In another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes a second tubeextending from the elongated member, the second tube defining a secondfluid passage in fluid communication with the internal region via thesecond outlet and the second radially-extending opening; and a secondhelical vane disposed in the second fluid passage to urge the entrainedsolid particulates to flow through the second fluid passage.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes a first plugopening formed through the fluid liner; a first stem extending from theelongated member; and a first bull plug assembly connected to the firststem, the first bull plug assembly includes a first liner plug extendingwithin the first plug opening; wherein the first liner plug dynamicallyresponds to pressure fluctuations within the internal region duringfluid flow therethrough.

In an exemplary embodiment, the first bull plug assembly furtherincludes a first head from which the first liner plug extends; and afirst post extending from the head and into the first liner plug.

In another exemplary embodiment, the manifold includes an end capconnected to the elongated member, the end cap defining a second insidesurface; wherein the internal region is at least partially defined bythe elongated member and the end cap; wherein the fluid liner is engagedwith the second inside surface of the end cap; wherein the fluid linerdefines a third inside surface within the internal region; wherein afirst thickness of the fluid liner is defined between the first insidesurface of the elongated member and the third inside surface of thefluid liner; wherein a second thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the second inside surface of the end cap and the third insidesurface of the fluid liner; and wherein the second thickness of thefluid liner is greater than the first thickness of the fluid liner.

In yet another exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner is permanentlybonded to the first inside surface; and wherein the fluid linerdynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internal regionduring fluid flow therethrough while the permanent bond between thefluid liner and the first inside surface is maintained.

Other aspects, features, and advantages will become apparent from thefollowing detailed description when taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings, which are a part of this disclosure and whichillustrate, by way of example, principles of the inventions disclosed.

DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES

The accompanying drawings facilitate an understanding of the variousembodiments.

FIG. 1 is a diagrammatic illustration of an apparatus according to anexemplary embodiment, the apparatus includes a manifold.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the manifold of FIG. 1, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a section view taken along line 3-3 of FIG. 2, according to anexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4A is a section view taken along line 4A-4A of FIG. 2, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4B is a section view taken along line 4B-4B of FIG. 2, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 4C is a view similar to that of FIG. 4A, according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a partial sectional/partial diagrammatic view of a portion ofthe manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during the manufacture thereof, according toan exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a partial sectional/partial diagrammatic view of a portion ofthe manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during the manufacture thereof, according toanother exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a partial sectional/partial diagrammatic view of a portion ofthe manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during the manufacture thereof, according toyet another exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 8 and 9 are partial sectional/partial diagrammatic views of aportion of the manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during the manufacture thereof,according to still yet another exemplary embodiment.

FIGS. 10, 11A and 11B are sectional and partial sectional/partialdiagrammatic views of a portion of the manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during themanufacture thereof, according to still yet another exemplaryembodiment.

FIGS. 12A and 12B are sectional and partial sectional/partialdiagrammatic views of a portion of the manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during themanufacture thereof, according to still yet another exemplaryembodiment.

FIGS. 12C and 12D are partial sectional/partial diagrammatic views of aportion of the manifold of FIGS. 1-4B during the manufacture thereof,according to still yet another exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a view similar to that of FIG. 3, according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of FIG. 3, accordingto an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged view of a portion of FIG. 3, according to anotherexemplary embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 1, an apparatus isgenerally referred to by the reference numeral 10 and includes areciprocating pump assembly 12 and a motor 14 operably coupled thereto.The motor 14 is adapted to drive the pump assembly 12 via a transmissionor coupling 16 and a speed reduction drive mechanism 18. The pumpassembly 12 includes a power end portion 20 and a fluid end portion 22operably coupled thereto. The speed reduction drive mechanism 18 isoperably coupled to the power end portion 20. The fluid end portion 22includes a fluid end block or fluid cylinder 24 in which a plurality ofpressure chambers 26 are formed. During operation, the power end portion20 is adapted to cause respective plungers (not shown) to reciprocate inand out of the pressure chambers 26. The combination of at least eachpressure chamber 26 and corresponding plunger may be characterized as aplunger throw. In several exemplary embodiments, the pump assembly 12includes three plunger throws (i.e., a triplex pump as shown in FIG. 1),or includes four, five or more plunger throws. In an exemplaryembodiment, the pump assembly 12 is a mud pump, or a hydraulic facturing(or “frac”) pump.

As shown in FIG. 1, respective inlet valve housings 28 are in fluidcommunication with the pressure chambers 26. The inlet valve housings 28are also in fluid communication with an inlet, or suction, manifold 30.Each of the inlet valve housings 28 includes a valve (not shown)disposed therein that selectively permits fluid to flow from the suctionmanifold 30 and into the corresponding pressure chamber 26. Respectiveoutlet valve housings 32 are in fluid communication with the pressurechambers 26. The outlet valve housings 32 are also in fluidcommunication with an outlet, or discharge, manifold 34. Each of theoutlet valve housings 32 includes a valve (not shown) disposed thereinthat selectively permits fluid to flow out of the corresponding pressurechamber 26 and into the discharge manifold 34. A source of fluid 36 isin fluid communication with the suction manifold 30 via a fluid conduit38. The suction manifold 30 is connected to the conduit 38 via a flangedconnection, with a flange 40 at the end of the conduit 38 beingconnected to an end plate 42 of the suction manifold 30.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIGS. 2, 3, 4A and 4B withcontinuing reference to FIG. 1, the suction manifold 30 includes anelongated member 44 that is generally cylindrical and includes opposingend portions 46 and 48. A longitudinal axis 50 is defined by theelongated member 44. The end plate 42 is connected to the elongatedmember 44 at the end portion 46, and an end cap 52 is connected to theelongated member 44 at the end portion 48. Axially-spaced tubes 54 a, 54b and 54 c extend from the elongated member 44 in a direction that isperpendicular to the longitudinal axis 50. The tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 cdefine fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively.

Helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c are disposed within the fluid passages56 a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively, and are connected to the tubes 54 a,54 b and 54 c, respectively. Under conditions to be described below,each of the helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c is adapted to induce avortex in fluid flowing through the corresponding fluid passage 56 a, 56b or 56 c, thereby reducing turbulence and creating a more laminar flowin the fluid end portion 22 of the pump assembly 12. In severalexemplary embodiments, the helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c may beintegrally cast with, and/or welded to, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c,respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, each of the helical vanes 58a, 58 b and 58 c may be a collapsible insert mounted into the side ofthe corresponding tube 54 a, 54 b or 54 c.

The tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c extend to a manifold flange 60, which maybe connected to the respective inlet valve housings 28, shown in FIG. 1.In an exemplary embodiment, instead of the inlet valve housings 28, themanifold flange 60 may be connected to another portion of the fluid end22.

A cleanout stem 62 extends from the end cap 52 and along thelongitudinal axis 50. Valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c extend fromthe elongated member 44 in a direction that is perpendicular to each ofthe longitudinal axis 50 and the direction of extension of the tubes 54a, 54 b and 54 c. Each of the cleanout stem 62 and the valve lift stems64 a, 64 b and 64 c includes an external threaded connection 66 (shownin FIGS. 3 and 4A) at the distal end portion thereof. Respective bullplug assemblies 68 are connected to each of the cleanout stem 62 and thevalve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c.

As shown in FIG. 3, the elongated member 44 defines a generallycylindrical inside surface 70, and at least partially defines aninternal region 72. The elongated member 44 includes an inlet 74 at theend portion 46, and outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 formed through the wallthereof. The outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c are generally aligned with thefluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively. The end plate 42 ispositioned at the inlet 74, and includes a through-opening 42 a. The endcap 52 defines a generally concave inside surface 78, which is adjacentthe inside surface 70 and together with the inside surface 70 forms agenerally continuous inside surface. The end cap 52 partially definesthe internal region 72. In an exemplary embodiment, the end cap 52and/or the inside surface 78 may not be concave or bowl-shaped, andinstead the end cap 52 and/or the inside surface 78 may be, for example,flat, corrugated, convex, in the form of plate, etc.

A fluid liner 80 is disposed within the internal region 72 andpermanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Under conditions tobe described below, the fluid liner 80 dynamically responds to pressurefluctuations within the internal region 72 during fluid flowtherethrough while the permanent bond between the fluid liner 80 and theinside surfaces 70 and 78 is maintained. The portion of the fluid liner80 permanently bonded to the inside surface 70 is generally cylindricalin shape, corresponding to the general cylindrical shape of the insidesurface 70. The portion of the fluid liner 80 permanently bonded to theinside surface 78 of the end cap 52 is generally bowl-shaped,corresponding to the general bowl shape of the inside surface 78.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 is formed of a resilientmaterial that includes, for example, a foaming nitrile rubber typematerial (also known as Buna-N, Perbunan or Nitrile Butadiene Rubber(NBR) and provided under trades names such as Nipol®, Krynac®, andEuroprene®). In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 is formed ofa resilient material that includes, for example, nitrile rubber foamthat includes at least one of a nitrile rubber, a conductive carbonblack, and a plasticizer, or any combination of the foregoing. Inseveral exemplary embodiments, the fluid liner 80 is formed of aresilient material that may include, for example, a foaming hydrogenatednitrile rubber (HNBR) type material, a foaming polymeric type material(e.g., polyamides, polyesters, polyolefins, polyurethane, polyethylene,polyvinyl chloride, polyisocyanurates, and mixtures thereof), a foamingepoxy type material, foaming silicone type material, a variety of othersynthetic foaming type materials, and/or any combination thereof. Inseveral exemplary embodiments, the fluid liner 80 is formed of aresilient material that includes additional foam materials and/ornon-foam materials including, but not limited to, ethylene propylenediene monomer (EPDM) rubber. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner80 is formed of a resilient material that includes cells filled with aninert gas such as, but not limited to, nitrogen; in certain exemplaryembodiments, such a resilient cellular material, having cells filledwith an inert gas, is formed by mixing a chemical foaming agent with abase material or polymer, and/or by injecting the inert gas into thebase material.

In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded tothe inside surfaces 70 and 78 using a vulcanizable adhesive compound orbonding agent. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 may beformed of a resilient material that includes, for example, a nitrilerubber foam material (hydrogenated or otherwise), and a vulcanizableadhesive compound may be used to provide vulcanization adhesion, andthus a permanent bond, between the fluid liner 80 and the insidesurfaces 70 and 78. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 maybe formed of a resilient material that includes, for example, a nitrilerubber foam material (hydrogenated or otherwise), and an adhesive sheetmay be disposed on the inside surfaces 70 and 78 and thus between thefluid liner 80 and the inside surfaces 70 and 78, thereby permanentlybonding the fluid liner 80 to the inside surfaces 70 and 78; in anexemplary embodiment, such an adhesive sheet may be rolled into the formof a tube and inserted into the internal region 72 via the inlet 74. Inan exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded to theinside surfaces 70 and 78 using Chemlok® 8560S adhesive, Chemlok® 8110adhesive, Chemlok® 250 adhesive, or any combination thereof. In anexemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded to theinside surfaces 70 and 78 using MP 05 adhesive, KM 16 adhesive, KM 31adhesive, or any combination thereof, all of which adhesives areavailable from Kamelock, Mönchengladbach, Germany. In an exemplaryembodiment, the fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded to the insidesurfaces 70 and 78 using one or more of the following Loctite®-brandproducts or types of products: High Methyl CA-Loctite® 496™; SuperBonder® Instant Adhesive; Surface Insensitive CA; 401™ Prism® InstantAdhesive; Primer-Loctite® 401™ Prism®; Instant Adhesive, 770™ Prism®Primer; Rubber Toughened CA; 480™ Prism® Instant Adhesive; RubberToughened CA; 4204™ Prism® Instant Adhesive; Medium OximeSilicone-Loctite® 5900® Flange; Sealant, Heavy Body; Two-Part No-MixAcrylic; 330™ Depend® Adhesive; Light Curing Acrylic-Loctite® 3105™;Light Cure Adhesive; Low Acetoxy Silicone-Loctite® Superflex®; and RTVSilicone Adhesive Sealant. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner80 is permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78 without theuse of an adhesive compound or bonding agent. In an exemplaryembodiment, the fluid liner 80 is formed an NBR material or an HNBRmaterial and, as a result of the setting of such material, the materialbonds directly to the elongated member 44 and the end cap 52 and thus tothe inside surfaces 70 and 78. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluidliner 80 is permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78 using anelastomer-to-metal bonding agent.

As shown in FIG. 3, radially-extending openings 82 a, 82 b and 82 c areformed through the fluid liner 80. The openings 82 a, 82 b and 82 c aregenerally aligned with the outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, respectively,and thus with the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively.Thus, the internal region 72 is in fluid communication with: the fluidpassage 56 a via the opening 82 a and the outlet 76 a; the fluid passage56 b via the opening 82 b and the outlet 76 b; and the fluid passage 56c via the opening 82 c and the outlet 56 c. The openings 82 a, 82 b and82 c are axially spaced from each other so that respective portions ofthe fluid liner 80 extend axially between the openings 82 a and 82 b,and between the openings 82 b and 82 c. A passage 84 is defined by thecleanout stem 62, and is axially aligned with the longitudinal axis 50.An axial opening 86 is formed through the end cap 52 and is aligned withthe longitudinal axis 50 and thus the passage 84. An axially-extendingplug opening 88 is formed through the fluid liner 80, and is generallyaligned with the longitudinal axis 50, the opening 86 and the passage84.

As shown in FIG. 4A, each bull plug assembly 68 includes a head 90having a shoulder that defines an axially-facing surface 90 a. A linerplug 92 extends from the head 90 in a direction opposite the directionin which the axially-facing surface 90 a faces. A wing nut 93 includingan internal threaded connection fits over the head 90, and engages theaxially-facing surface 90 a. In an exemplary embodiment, the liner plug92 is formed of a resilient material that may be identical to, ordifferent from, the above-described resilient material of which thefluid liner 80 is formed. In several exemplary embodiments, the linerplug 92 may be formed of a resilient material that includes one or moreof the materials described or identified above in connection with theresilient material of which the fluid liner 80 may be formed. In anexemplary embodiment, the liner plug 92 is a molded cylindrical plug.

The valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c define passages 94 a, 94 b and94 c, respectively. Radial openings 96 a, 96 b and 96 c are formedthrough the elongated member 44, and are aligned with the passages 94 a,94 b and 94 c, respectively. Radially-extending plug openings 98 a, 98 band 98 c are formed through the fluid liner 80, and are generallyaligned with the radial openings 96 a, 96 b and 96 c, respectively, andthe passages 94 a, 94 b and 94 c, respectively. The plug openings 98 a,98 b and 98 c are axially spaced from each other so that a portion ofthe fluid liner 80 extends axially between the plug openings 98 a and 98b, and another portion of the fluid liner 80 extends axially between theplug openings 98 b and 98 c.

The respective heads 90 of the bull plug assemblies 68 abut the distalends of the stems 62, 64 a, 64 b and 64 c. The respective liner plugs 92of the bull plug assemblies 68 extend through the passages 84, 94 a, 94b and 94 c, through the openings 86, 96 a, 96 b and 96 c, and into theopenings 88, 98 a, 98 b and 98 c formed in the fluid liner 80, therebyplugging the openings 88, 98 a, 98 b and 98 c. The internal threadedconnections of the wing nuts 93 of the bull plug assemblies 68threadably engage the external threaded connections 66, respectively,thereby connecting each of the bull plug assemblies 68 to either the endcap 52 or the elongated member 44. As a result, the aforementionedplugging of the openings 88, 98 a, 98 b and 98 c is maintained.

An inside surface 80 a within the internal region 72 is defined by thefluid liner 80. A thickness 80 b of the fluid liner 80 is definedbetween the inside surface 70 of the elongated member 44 and the insidesurface 80 a of the fluid liner 80. A thickness 80 c of the fluid liner80 is defined between the inside surface 78 of the end cap 52 and theinside surface 80 a of the fluid liner 80. In an exemplary embodiment,the thickness 80 c is greater than the thickness 80 b. In an exemplaryembodiment, the thicknesses 80 b and 80 c are equal. In an exemplaryembodiment, the thickness 80 c is less than the thickness 80 b.

In several exemplary embodiments, one or more of the end plate 42, theend cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c, the cleanout stem 62, and thevalve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c, are integrally formed with theelongated member 44. In several exemplary embodiments, one or more ofthe end plate 42, the elongated member 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54a, 54 b and 54 c, the cleanout stem 62, and the valve lift stems 64 a,64 b and 64 c, may be formed of pressure vessel steels recognized byASME, such as ASTM A36, A105B, or the like. In several exemplaryembodiments, carbon steel meeting ASME requirements may be used. Inanother exemplary embodiment, the elongated member 44 is a cast ormolded member.

In operation, in an exemplary embodiment, with continuing reference toFIGS. 1-4B, the motor 14 drives the pump assembly 12 via thetransmission or coupling 16 and the speed reduction drive mechanism 18.The operation of the pump assembly 12 causes fluid to be sucked or drawninto the suction manifold 30 from the fluid source 36, or the inletvalve 28 is opened, which allows pressurized fluid to flow into thesuction manifold from fluid source 36. More particularly, the fluidflows from the fluid source 36, through the conduit 38, through theinlet 74, and into the internal region 72. The fluid flows through theinternal region 72, and out of the internal region 72 via one or more ofthe radially-extending openings 82 a, 82 b and 82 c, and thus one ormore of the outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, respectively. The fluid flowsthrough one or more of the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, andsubsequently flows into one or more of the pressure chambers 26 via theinlet valve housings 28, respectively. The fluid is pressurized in thepressure chambers 26, and the pressurized fluid flows to the dischargemanifold 34 via the outlet valve housings 32. The unnumbered arrowsshown in FIG. 3 indicate the direction of fluid flow through theinternal region 72 according to one exemplary embodiment, in which thefluid flows through the radially-extending openings 82 a, 82 b and 82 c,the outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c,and into all three of the pressure chambers 26 via the inlet valvehousings 28.

During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, and thusduring the flow of fluid through the suction manifold 30, pressurefluctuations occur within the internal region 72 due to, for example,sudden fluid velocity changes, sudden fluid acceleration changes,acceleration-induced parameters, pressure pulses, the respectiveoperations of the valves disposed in the inlet valve housings 28, thepressurization of the fluid in the pressure chambers 26, the respectiveoperations of the valves disposed in the outlet valve housings 32,operational variations of the fluid source 36, or any combination of theforegoing. The fluid liner 80 dynamically responds to the pressurefluctuations within the internal region 72 by, for example, flexingand/or undergoing compression in one or more portions thereof, whilemaintaining the permanent bond between the fluid liner 80 and insidesurfaces 70 and 78. As a result, the fluid liner 80 changes the inletfluid volume capacity of the pump assembly 12 in response to thepressure fluctuations within the internal region 72, while maintainingthe permanent bond between the fluid liner 80 and the inside surfaces 70and 78. By dynamically responding to the pressure fluctuations withinthe internal region 72, the fluid liner 80 operates to stabilize fluidvelocities in the internal region 72, the radially-extending openings 82a, 82 b and 82 c, the outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, and the fluidpassages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c. The fluid liner 80 dynamically responds tothe pressure fluctuations within the internal region 72 by, for example,dampening pulsations within the internal region 72 resulting from fluidflow therethrough, absorbing water-hammering effects within the suctionmanifold 30, reducing or attenuating vibration within the suctionmanifold 30, and decreasing shock waves within the suction manifold 30.The fluid liner 80 can store kinetic energy generated by the motion ofthe fluid therethrough by local compression of the liner 80. The kineticenergy can be released from the liner 80, which assists the fluidacceleration into pumping chamber 26. This storing and discharging ofkinetic energy increases pump efficiency and reduces fluid cavitation byattenuating the pulsations and acoustical pressure waves created byaccelerating and deaccelerating of the pumped fluid.

During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, the fluid maycontain slurry, mud, drilling fluid, water, other types of liquids,and/or any combination thereof. The fluid may contain entrained solidparticulates such as, for example, proppant, soil, mined oreparticulates, tailings, etc. The helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 cinduce respective vortices in the fluid flow streams through the fluidpassages 56 a, 56 b and 56, reducing turbulence and creating a morelaminar flow through the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c. The helicalvanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c operate to urge the fluid, including anyentrained solid particulates, to flow upwards (as viewed in FIG. 3)through the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively. Thehelical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c facilitate the concentration of anyentrained solid particulates in the fluid flow in the center of each ofthe fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c, reducing the quantity ofentrained solid particulates that undesirably collect or accumulate inthe manifold 30 and thus do not flow into the pressure chambers 26.Additionally, the fluid liner 80 also operates to concentrate anyentrained solid particulates in the fluid flow in the center of theelongated member 44, and the center of each of the fluid passages 56 a,56 b and 56 c, thereby further reducing the quantity of entrained solidparticulates that undesirably collect or accumulate in the manifold 30and thus do not flow into the pressure chambers 26.

In an exemplary embodiment, the thickness 80 c may be greater than thethickness 80 b and, during the above-described operation of theapparatus 10, the increased thickness 80 c facilitates the dynamicresponse of the fluid liner 80 to pressure fluctuations within theinternal region 72, as well as the reduction in the quantity ofentrained solid particulates that collect or accumulate within themanifold 30, while maintaining the permanent bond of the fluid liner 80to the inside surfaces 70 and 78.

During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, the linerplugs 92 prevent entrained solid particulates from collecting oraccumulating within the openings 88, 98 a, 98 b and 98 c. In anexemplary embodiment, the liner plugs 92 may also decrease any shockwaves that may be formed as a result of the presence of the bull plugassemblies 68. In an exemplary embodiment, the liner plugs 92 may beformed of a resilient material that includes one or more of thematerials described or identified above in connection with the resilientmaterial of which the fluid liner 80 may be formed, and the liner plugs92 may dynamically respond to pressure fluctuations within the internalregion 72 during fluid flow therethrough.

Before or after the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, therespective bull plug assemblies 68 that are connected to the valve liftstems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c may be disconnected therefrom to permit accessto the valves disposed in the inlet valve housings 28. Moreparticularly, with the respective bull plug assemblies 68 disconnected,a valve lift tool may be inserted through the valve lift stems 64 a, 64b and 64 c and used to drain the fluid out of the chambers 26 throughrespective valves disposed in the inlet valve housings 28.

Before or after the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, thebull plug assembly 68 that is connected to the cleanout stem 62 may bedisconnected therefrom in order to permit access to the internal region72 so that the manifold 30 may be cleaned out as needed.

Since the fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70and 78, there is no need to physically accommodate the removal of thefluid liner 80 from the manifold 30, or the insertion of the fluid liner80 into the manifold 30. Additionally, since the fluid liner 80 ispermanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78, there is no needfor bracing, supports, or fasteners to maintain the position of thefluid liner 80 within the manifold 30. As a result of these factors, thesize of the elongated member 44 may be decreased (e.g., the outerdiameter of the elongated member 44 may be decreased), and the volume ofthe fluid liner 80 may be increased as compared to a manifold having aremovable liner. Thus, the manifold 30 is more compact and narrow, andcan fit on a truck that is adapted to haul the pump assembly 12, whileproviding increased pulsation control during the operation of theapparatus 10.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 4C with continuingreference to FIGS. 1-4B, a longitudinally-extending taper is formed inthe fluid liner 80 and defines a taper angle 80 d, relative to thelongitudinal axis 50. In an exemplary embodiment, the taper angle rangesfrom greater than 0 degrees to less than about 70 degrees measured fromthe longitudinal axis 50. In another exemplary embodiment the taperangle ranges from greater than 1 degree to less than 35 degrees, fromabout 1 degree to about 20 degrees, or from about 2 degrees to 10degrees measured from the longitudinal axis 50. The thickness 80 c isgreater than the thickness 80 b at any point along the elongated member44.

During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, in anexemplary embodiment, the taper angle 80 d provides increased fluidvelocity or flow to at least the outlet 76 c proximate the end cap 52,as compared to a non-tapered fluid liner. The increase in velocityassists in preventing the solids from settling out of the fluid in theportion of the unit that requires the least amount of flow around endcap 52. In several exemplary embodiments, the taper angle 80 d providesincreased fluid volume or flow to at least the outlets 76 b and 76 c, ascompared to a non-tapered fluid liner. In several exemplary embodiments,the taper angle 80 d provides increased fluid volume or flow to theoutlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, as compared to a non-tapered fluid liner.In several exemplary embodiments, the taper angle 80 d more evenlydistributes fluid volume or flow to the outlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, ascompared to a non-tapered fluid liner.

During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, in anexemplary embodiment, the thickness 80 c being greater than thethickness 80 b provides increased fluid volume or flow to at least theoutlet 76 c proximate the end cap 52, as compared to when thethicknesses 80 b and 80 c are equal, the thickness 80 c is less than thethickness 80 b, or the portion of fluid liner 80 that is permanentlybonded to the inside surface 78 of the end cap 52 is omitted. During theabove-described operation of the apparatus 10, in an exemplaryembodiment, the thickness 80 c being greater than the thickness 80 bprovides increased fluid volume or flow to at least the outlets 76 b and76 c, as compared to when the thicknesses 80 b and 80 c are equal, thethickness 80 c is less than the thickness 80 b, or the portion of fluidliner 80 that is permanently bonded to the inside surface 78 of the endcap 52 is omitted. During the above-described operation of the apparatus10, in an exemplary embodiment, the thickness 80 c being greater thanthe thickness 80 b provides increased fluid velocity or flow to theoutlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, as compared to when the thicknesses 80 band 80 c are equal, the thickness 80 c is less than the thickness 80 b,or the portion of fluid liner 80 that is permanently bonded to theinside surface 78 of the end cap 52 is omitted. The increase in velocityassists in preventing the solids from settling out of the fluid in theportion of the unit that requires the least amount of flow around theend cap 52. During the above-described operation of the apparatus 10, inan exemplary embodiment, the thickness 80 c being greater than thethickness 80 b more evenly distributes fluid volume or flow between theoutlets 76 a, 76 b and 76 c, as compared to when the thicknesses 80 band 80 c are equal, the thickness 80 c is less than the thickness 80 b,or the portion of fluid liner 80 that is permanently bonded to theinside surface 78 of the end cap 52 is omitted.

As illustrated in FIG. 5 with continuing reference to FIGS. 1-4C, tomanufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplary embodiment, the elongatedmember 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c, the manifoldflange 60, the cleanout stem 62, and the valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and64 c, are assembled in accordance with the foregoing. A generallycylindrical mold 100 is positioned within the internal region 72. Themold 100 extends from a mold end cap 102, which is connected to theelongated member 44 at the end portion 46. Respective mold plugs 104 areinserted in the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c and engage the mold100. Similarly, respective mold plugs (not shown) are inserted in theopenings 98 a, 98 b and 98 c, and engage the mold 100. The mold 100 andthe mold plugs 104 may be coated in a lubricant or release agent priorto the aforementioned arrangement. A pump 106 is placed in fluidcommunication with the internal region 72 via the passage 84 and aconduit 108, which is connected to the cleanout stem 62. In an exemplaryembodiment, the mold 100 is positioned within the internal region 72 sothat the mold 100 is equidistant from the inside surface 70 at allpoints circumferentially therearound. In an exemplary embodiment, themold 100 is positioned within the internal region 72 so that the mold100 is equidistant from the inside surface 70 at all pointscircumferentially therearound, and so that the distance between the endcap 52 and the end of the mold 100 opposite the mold end cap 102 isgreater than the distance between the mold 100 and the inside surface70. In an exemplary embodiment, the mold 100 is tapered, having a widerouter diameter at the end adjacent the mold end cap 102; the diameter ofthe mold 100 gradually reduces in a direction away from the mold end cap102.

As shown in FIG. 5, to manufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplaryembodiment, one or more of the above-described adhesive compounds and/orbonding agents are applied to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Before,during or after this application, the pump 106 pumps the material thatwill form the fluid liner 80 into the internal region 72 via the conduit108 and the passage 84. In an exemplary embodiment, the pumped materialmay be in liquid form. In an exemplary embodiment, the pumped materialmay be a mixture, one or more parts of which are pumped simultaneouslyand/or serially. In an exemplary embodiment, the pumped materialincludes one or more of the above-described adhesive compounds ormixtures. During the pumping of the material that will form the fluidliner 80, gas or fluid within the internal region 72 may be pushed outof the internal region 72 through vents (not shown). During or after thepumping of the material that will form the fluid liner 80, the materialsets. In an exemplary embodiment, the material sets with the applicationof heat. In an exemplary embodiment, the material sets without theapplication of heat. Following the setting of the material, the mold endcap 102, the mold 100, the mold plugs 104, and any other mold plugs, areremoved from the manifold 30, resulting in the fluid liner 80illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The fluidliner 80 is permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Theremainder of the components of the manifold 30 that have not yet beenassembled (e.g., the helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled inaccordance with the foregoing.

As illustrated in FIG. 6 with continuing reference to FIGS. 1-5, tomanufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplary embodiment, the elongatedmember 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c, the manifoldflange 60, the cleanout stem 62, and the valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and64 c, are assembled in accordance with the foregoing. The mold 100 ispositioned within the internal region 72. The mold 100 extends from themold end cap 102, which is connected to the elongated member 44 at theend portion 46. The mold plugs 104 are inserted in the fluid passages 56a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively, and engage the mold 100. Similarly,respective mold plugs (not shown) are inserted in the openings 98 a, 98b and 98 c, and engage the mold 100. A mold plug 110 is positionedwithin the passage 84. The mold plug 110 does not engage the mold 100. Alongitudinally-extending passage 112 extends through the mold 100. Afluid conduit 114 is placed in fluid communication with each of thepassage 112 and the pump 106. The fluid conduit 114 is connected to themold end cap 102 at the center thereof.

As shown in FIG. 6, to manufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplaryembodiment, one or more of the above-described adhesive compounds and/orbonding agents are applied to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Before,during or after this application, the pump 106 pumps the material thatwill form the fluid liner 80 into the internal region 72 via the conduit114 and the passage 112. During or after the pumping of the materialthat will form the fluid liner 80, the material sets. Following thesetting of the material, the mold end cap 102, the mold 100, the moldplugs 104, the mold plug 110, and any other mold plugs, are removed fromthe manifold 30, resulting in the fluid liner 80 illustrated in, forexample, FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The fluid liner 80 ispermanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. The remainder ofthe components of the manifold 30 that have not yet been assembled(e.g., the helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled inaccordance with the foregoing.

As illustrated in FIG. 7 with continuing reference to FIGS. 1-6, tomanufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplary embodiment, the elongatedmember 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c, the manifoldflange 60, the cleanout stem 62, and the valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and64 c, are assembled in accordance with the foregoing. The mold 100 ispositioned within the internal region 72. The mold 100 extends from themold end cap 102, which is connected to the elongated member 44 at theend portion 46. The mold plugs 104 are inserted in the fluid passages 56a, 56 b and 56 c, respectively, and engage the mold 100. Similarly,respective mold plugs (not shown) are inserted in the openings 98 a, 98b and 98 c, and engage the mold 100. A mold plug 116 is positionedwithin the passage 84 and engages the mold 100. A fluid conduit 118 isplaced in fluid communication with each of the internal region 72 andthe pump 106. The fluid conduit 118 is connected to the mold end cap 102proximate the edge thereof.

As shown in FIG. 7, to manufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplaryembodiment, one or more of the above-described adhesive compounds and/orbonding agents are applied to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Before,during or after this application, the pump 106 pumps the material thatwill form the fluid liner 80 into the internal region 72 via the conduit118. During or after the pumping of the material that will form thefluid liner 80, the material sets. Following the setting of thematerial, the mold end cap 102, the mold 100, the mold plugs 104, themold plug 116, and any other mold plugs, are removed from the manifold30, resulting in the fluid liner 80 illustrated in, for example, FIGS.3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded tothe inside surfaces 70 and 78. The remainder of the components of themanifold 30 that have not yet been assembled (e.g., the helical vanes 58a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled in accordance with the foregoing.

As illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, to manufacture the manifold 30, in anexemplary embodiment, the elongated member 44, the end cap 52, the tubes54 a, 54 b and 54 c, the manifold flange 60, the cleanout stem 62, andthe valve lift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c, are assembled in accordancewith the foregoing. The mold 100 is positioned within the internalregion 72. The mold 100 extends from the mold end cap 102, which isconnected to the elongated member 44 at the end portion 46. The moldplugs 104 are inserted in the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c,respectively, and engage the mold 100. Similarly, respective mold plugs(not shown) are inserted in the openings 98 a, 98 b and 98 c, and engagethe mold 100. The mold plug 116 is positioned within the passage 84 andengages the mold 100. One or more of the above-described adhesivecompounds and/or bonding agents are applied to the inside surfaces 70and 78. Before, during or after this application, a mixture 120 ispoured or otherwise disposed in the elongated member 44 of the manifold30. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixture 120 may include a rawcompound of NBR or HNBR material that is mixed with other compounds,such as a chemical blowing agent. In an exemplary embodiment, themixture 120 may include one or more of the above-described adhesivecompounds and/or bonding agents. In an exemplary embodiment, the mixture120 may, following the mixing process, retain its liquid form for asufficient duration to allow for pumping, extruding, or pouring of themixture 120. As shown in FIG. 8, the mixture 120 is poured or otherwisedisposed in the internal region 72. The mixture 120 is then permitted toexpand to fill the portion of the internal region 72 that is not filledby, among other components, the mold 100, the mold plugs 104, the moldplug 116, and other mold plugs. As shown in FIG. 9, the mixture 120completely fills or extrudes through the available space within theinternal region 72 not occupied by other components, thereby forming thefluid liner 80. The fluid liner is permanently bonded to the insidesurfaces 70 and 78.

In several exemplary embodiments, instead of, or in addition to themixture 120, sheet(s) and/or chunk(s) of expandable material that willform the fluid liner 80 are placed or otherwise disposed in theelongated member 44; such materials may then be permitted to expand inaccordance with the foregoing.

In several exemplary embodiments, the fluid liner 80 may be machined toprovide the inside surface 80 a (FIG. 4C) of the fluid liner 80.Following the formation of the fluid liner 80, the mold end cap 102, themold 100, the mold plugs 104, the mold plug 116, and any other moldplugs, are removed from the manifold 30, resulting in the fluid liner 80illustrated in, for example, FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The fluidliner 80 is permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Theremainder of the components of the manifold 30 that have not yet beenassembled (e.g., the helical vanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled inaccordance with the foregoing.

As illustrated in FIGS. 10, 11A and 11B with continuing reference toFIGS. 1-9, to manufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplary embodiment,the elongated member 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54 b and 54 c,the manifold flange 60, the cleanout stem 62, and the valve lift stems64 a, 64 b and 64 c, are assembled in accordance with the foregoing, asshown in FIG. 10.

As shown in FIG. 11A, a pump 122 is placed in fluid communication withthe internal region 72. In an exemplary embodiment, the pump 122 may beoperably coupled to the elongated member 44 at the end portion 46. Tomanufacture the manifold 30, the pump 122 pumps, draws, extrudes orotherwise forces material 124 into the internal region 72, causing thematerial 124 to fill the internal region 72, the fluid passages 56 a, 56b, and 56 c, the passage 84, and the passages 94 a, 94 b and 94 c (shownin FIG. 4A). In an exemplary embodiment, the material 124 includesblowing agents, any of the above-described materials that may form thefluid liner 80, any of the above-described adhesive compounds and/orbonding agents, and/or any combination thereof. The material 124 ispermitted to set, cure or solidify in the internal region 72 so that thematerial 124 permanently bonds to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. In anexemplary embodiment, the material 124 is set with the application ofheat. In an exemplary embodiment, the material 124 is set without theapplication of heat. After the setting of the material 124, the materialis permanently bonded to the inside surfaces 70 and 78. In an exemplaryembodiment, before, during or after the filling of the internal region72, any of the above-described adhesive compounds and/or bonding agentsmay be applied against the inside surfaces 70 and 78.

As shown in FIG. 11B, during or after the setting of the material 124, atool 126, such as a drill bit, may be used to remove a portion of thematerial 124 from the internal region 72. The tool 126 may be moved in adirection A and then in a direction opposite thereto. A tool 128, suchas a drill bit, may be used to remove respective portions of thematerial 124 from the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c. The tool 128may be moved in a direction B and then in a direction opposite thereto.A tool 130, such as a drill bit, may be used to remove a portion of thematerial 124 from the passage 84. The tool 130 may be moved in adirection C and then in a direction opposite thereto. In a similarmanner, respective portions of the material 124 may be removed from theopenings 94 a, 94 b and 94 c (shown in FIG. 4A).

Additionally, the tool 128 may be used to form the openings 82 a, 82 band 82 c (shown in FIG. 3). The tool 130 may be used to form the opening86 (shown in FIG. 3). Additionally, the tool used to remove respectiveportions of the material 124 from the openings 94 a, 94 b and 94 c, maybe used to form the openings 98 a, 98 b and 98 c (shown in FIG. 4A). Inseveral exemplary embodiments, the tools 126, 128 and 130, and/or othertools, may be used to form the fluid liner 80 illustrated in, forexample, FIGS. 3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The remainder of the componentsof the manifold 30 that have not yet been assembled (e.g., the helicalvanes 58 a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled in accordance with theforegoing.

As illustrated in FIGS. 12A, 12B, 12C and 12D with continuing referenceto FIGS. 1-11B, to manufacture the manifold 30, in an exemplaryembodiment, the elongated member 44, the end cap 52, the tubes 54 a, 54b and 54 c, the manifold flange 60, the cleanout stem 62, and the valvelift stems 64 a, 64 b and 64 c, are assembled in accordance with theforegoing, as shown in FIG. 12A. Respective mold plugs 132 are insertedin the fluid passages 56 a, 56 b and 56 c. The respective lengths of themold plugs 132 are equal to at least the sum of the length of the fluidpassage 56 a and the length of the opening 82 a, at least the sum of thelength of the fluid passage 56 b and the length of the opening 82 b, andat least the sum of the length of the fluid passage 56 c and the lengthof the opening 82 c. A mold plug 134 is inserted in the passage 84. Thelength of the mold plug 134 is equal to at least the sum of the passage84 and the opening 88. Respective mold plugs (not shown) are inserted inthe passages 94 a, 94 b and 94 c (not shown); the respective lengths ofsuch mold plugs are equal to at least the sum of the length of thepassage 94 a and the length of the opening 98 a, at least the sum of thelength of the passage 94 b and the length of the opening 98 b, and atleast the sum of the length of the passage 94 c and the length of theopening 98 c.

As shown in FIG. 12B, an application device 136 is provided thatincludes a base 137, a tubular member 138 extending from the base 137,and plurality of nozzles 140 connected to the tubular member 138. Thenozzles 140 are spaced both axially along the tubular member 138, andcircumferentially around the tubular member 138. At least one of thenozzles 140 is positioned at the distal end of the tubular member 138.The tubular member 138 is inserted into the elongated member 44 from theend portion 46. The application device 136 is activated to apply one ormore layers of material 142 against the inside surfaces 70 and 78. Thematerial 142 flows through the tubular member 138 and out of the nozzles140, spraying into the internal region 72. As a result, the material 142is applied against the inside surface 70 and 78. In an exemplaryembodiment, the material 142 includes blowing agents, any of theabove-described materials that may form the fluid liner 80, any of theabove-described adhesive compounds and/or bonding agents, and/or anycombination thereof. In an exemplary embodiment, during the applicationof the material 142, the tubular member 138 may be moved left and/orright, as viewed in FIG. 12B, the tubular member 138 may be rotatedabout the longitudinal axis 50, and/or any combination thereof. In anexemplary embodiment, before, during or after the spraying of thematerial 142, any of the above-described adhesive compounds and/orbonding agents may be applied against the inside surfaces 70 and 78.

As shown in FIG. 12C, the tubular member 138 is removed from theinternal region 72. A setting device 142 is provided that includes abase 144 and an expandable member 146 extending therefrom. In severalexemplary embodiments, the expandable member 146 includes an expandablemandrel or other mechanical expansion device, an air-expandable orinflatable device such as a balloon, one or more other types ofexpandable members, or any combination thereof. The expandable member146 is inserted into the internal region 72.

As shown in FIG. 12D, the expandable member 146 is operated to expandinto engagement with the material 142 so that the material 142 is heldin place between the expandable member 146 and the inside surfaces 70and 78. The expandable member 146 may be held in its expanded stateuntil the material 142 has sufficiently set and permanently bonded tothe inside surfaces 70 and 78, thereby forming the fluid liner 80.Following the formation of the fluid liner 80, the expandable member 146is then removed from the internal region 72. The mold plugs 132, themold plug 134, and any other mold plugs, are removed from the manifold30, resulting in the fluid liner 80 illustrated in, for example, FIGS.3, 4A and 4B, or FIG. 4C. The fluid liner 80 is permanently bonded tothe inside surfaces 70 and 78. The remainder of the components of themanifold 30 that have not yet been assembled (e.g., the helical vanes 58a, 58 b and 58 c) are assembled in accordance with the foregoing.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 13 with continuingreference to FIGS. 1-12D, a surface liner 148 is bonded to the insidesurface 80 a of the fluid liner 80. The surface liner 148 is adapted toprotect the fluid liner 80. In an exemplary embodiment, the surfaceliner 148 may be formed of a material that includes, for example,ethylene-propylene, fluorocarbon, silicone, fluorosilicone, acrylics,polyurethanes, natural rubbers, acrylonitrile, butadiene, polyisoprene,polybutadiene, chloroprene, butyl rubber, nitrile rubber, othermaterials, other material types, or any combination thereof.

In several exemplary embodiments, the surface liner 148 may be bonded tothe inside surface 80 a during one or more of the above-describedmethods to manufacture the manifold 30. In an exemplary embodiment, thesurface liner 148 may be connected to the mold 100 in any of theexemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 5, 6, 7, or 8 and 9. In anexemplary embodiment, the surface liner 148 may include cut-out sections148 a, 148 b and 148 c to accommodate the respective mold plugs 104, acut-out section 148 d to accommodate the mold plug 116, and cut-outsections to accommodate other mold plugs and features. In an exemplaryembodiment, the mold 100 may include a material or coating that preventsthe surface liner 148 from sticking to the mold 100, and/or the surfaceliner 148 may include a bonding agent such that the surface liner 148bonds to the fluid liner 80 during the formation thereof.

In an exemplary embodiment, the surface liner 148 may be connected tothe expandable member 146 in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 12C and12D. As a result, the surface liner 148 engages the material 142 duringthe expansion of the expandable member 146 and its engagement with thematerial 142. In an exemplary embodiment, the expandable member 146 mayinclude a material or a coating that prevents the surface liner 148 fromsticking to the expandable member 146, and/or the surface liner 148 mayinclude a bonding agent such that the surface liner 148 attaches to thematerial 142 upon the setting of the material 142 and thus the formationof the fluid liner 80.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 14 with continuingreference to FIGS. 1-13, the fluid liner 80 includes reinforcementmembers 150. The reinforcement members 150 may be in the form ofreinforcement materials, mechanical supports, or any combinationthereof. Reinforcement materials may include metal materials, plasticmaterials, fiber materials, other materials, or any combination thereof.Mechanical supports may include surface supports, scaffolding, webbing,other supports, other stabilizers, or any combination thereof. Thereinforcement members 150 may be part of the material used to form thefluid liner 80 in accordance with the above-described embodiments,and/or may be assembled with, for example, the elongated member 44and/or the end cap 52, before the fluid liner 80 is formed.

In an exemplary embodiment, as illustrated in FIG. 15 with continuingreference to FIGS. 1-14, each of the bull plug assemblies 68 includes apost 152 that extends from the head 90 and into the liner plug 92,facilitating the connection between the head 90 and the liner plug 92and strengthening the bull plug assembly 68. The post 152 includes aplurality of undercuts 152 a.

In several exemplary embodiments, instead of, in addition to, or during,one or more of the above-described methods to manufacture the manifold30, the fluid liner 80, or the gas and/or liquid material that forms thefluid liner 80, may be extruded, poured, or otherwise disposed in themanifold 30. The manifold 30 may then be spun so that the materialundergoes a centrifugal rubber mold casting (CRMC) process to therebyform the fluid liner 80. In an exemplary embodiment, the fluid liner 80,or the gas and/or liquid material(s) that form(s) the fluid liner 80,may be extruded, poured, or otherwise disposed in at least the elongatedmember 44. At least the elongated member 44 may then be spun so that thematerial undergoes a CRMC process to thereby form the fluid liner 80.The remaining components of the manifold 30 may then be assembled to atleast the elongated member 44 and the end cap 52, and additionalfabrication may occur, in accordance with the foregoing description ofthe manifold 30. In several exemplary embodiments, during the CRMCprocess, any openings in the elongated member 44, other components ofthe manifold 30, or any combination thereof, may be sealed using theabove-described mold plugs or variations thereof, tape, plasticsheeting, or any combination thereof.

In several exemplary embodiments, the fluid liner 80 is formed from asheet or chunks of an expanding material disposed in the internal region72. The sheet or chunks can be cut or positioned so as not to block anyof the above-described openings in the manifold 30. The sheet or chunksof expanding material can be cured or expanded under conditions such as,but not limited to, the application of heat and/or a vacuum to theinternal region 72.

The foregoing exemplary embodiments are described in terms of areciprocating pump that may be used in different environments andapplication such as, for example, a mud pump or a frac pump. However,the foregoing exemplary embodiments are not limited to reciprocatingpumps as other structures requiring the dampening of the vibrations offluid flow may benefit from the disclosed embodiments. For example andnot limitation, the embodiments described herein may be adapted todampen the vibration of fluid flow in other types of pumps, centrifugalpumps, plenum chambers, baffles, scrubbers, pipes, automobiles, ships,or other equipment when dampening of solids, liquids, gels, or gasses isneeded.

In the foregoing description of certain embodiments, specificterminology has been resorted to for the sake of clarity. However, thedisclosure is not intended to be limited to the specific terms soselected, and it is to be understood that each specific term includesother technical equivalents which operate in a similar manner toaccomplish a similar technical purpose. Terms such as “left” and right”,“front” and “rear”, “above” and “below” and the like are used as wordsof convenience to provide reference points and are not to be construedas limiting terms.

In this specification, the word “comprising” is to be understood in its“open” sense, that is, in the sense of “including”, and thus not limitedto its “closed” sense, that is the sense of “consisting only of”. Acorresponding meaning is to be attributed to the corresponding words“comprise”, “comprised” and “comprises” where they appear.

In addition, the foregoing describes only some embodiments of theinvention(s), and alterations, modifications, additions and/or changescan be made thereto without departing from the scope and spirit of thedisclosed embodiments, the embodiments being illustrative and notrestrictive.

Furthermore, invention(s) have described in connection with what arepresently considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments,it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to thedisclosed embodiments, but on the contrary, is intended to cover variousmodifications and equivalent arrangements included within the spirit andscope of the invention(s). Also, the various embodiments described abovemay be implemented in conjunction with other embodiments, e.g., aspectsof one embodiment may be combined with aspects of another embodiment torealize yet other embodiments. Further, each independent feature orcomponent of any given assembly may constitute an additional embodiment.

What is claimed is:
 1. A manifold through which fluid is adapted toflow, the manifold comprising: an elongated member at least partiallydefining an internal region through which the fluid is adapted to flow,a longitudinal axis, and a first inside surface, the elongated membercomprising: one or more inlets via which the fluid flows into theinternal region; and one or more outlets via which the fluid flows outof the internal region; and a fluid liner disposed within the internalregion and permanently bonded to the first inside surface of theelongated member, wherein the fluid liner dynamically responds topressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough while the permanent bond between the fluid liner and thefirst inside surface of the elongated member is maintained.
 2. Themanifold of claim 1, wherein the one or more outlets of the elongatedmember comprise two outlets; wherein the manifold further comprises tworadially-extending openings formed through the fluid liner and generallyaligned with the two outlets, respectively; and wherein the tworadially-extending openings are axially spaced from each other so that aportion of the fluid liner extends axially between the tworadially-extending openings.
 3. The manifold of claim 2, furthercomprising two tubes axially spaced from each other and extending fromthe elongated member, the two tubes defining two fluid passages,respectively; wherein the two fluid passages are generally aligned withthe two outlets, respectively, and thus with the two radially-extendingopenings, respectively, so that each of the two fluid passages are influid communication with the internal region.
 4. The manifold of claim3, further comprising two helical vanes disposed in the two fluidpassages, respectively; wherein the two helical vanes are adapted toinduce vortices in fluid flow through the two fluid passages,respectively.
 5. The manifold of claim 1, further comprising: a firstplug opening formed through the fluid liner; and a first liner plugextending within the first plug opening.
 6. The manifold of claim 5,wherein the first liner plug dynamically responds to pressurefluctuations within the internal region during fluid flow therethrough.7. The manifold of claim 5, further comprising: a first stem extendingfrom the elongated member; and first bull plug assembly connected to thefirst stem, the first plug assembly comprising: the first liner plug;and a first head from which the first liner plug extends.
 8. Themanifold of claim 7, wherein the first plug assembly further comprises afirst post extending from the head and into the first liner plug.
 9. Themanifold of claim 5, further comprising: a second plug opening formedthrough the fluid liner and axially spaced from the first plug openingso that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially between the firstand second plug openings; and a second liner plug extending within thesecond plug opening.
 10. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the fluidliner is formed of a resilient material that comprises a nitrile rubbermaterial; and wherein the fluid liner is permanently bonded to the firstinside surface using at least a vulcanizable adhesive compound.
 11. Themanifold of claim 1, further comprising an end cap connected to theelongated member, the end cap defining a second inside surface to whichthe fluid liner is permanently bonded; wherein the fluid liner defines athird inside surface within the internal region.
 12. The manifold ofclaim 11, wherein a first thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the first inside surface of the elongated member and the thirdinside surface of the fluid liner; wherein a second thickness of thefluid liner is defined between the second inside surface of the end capand the third inside surface of the fluid liner; and wherein the secondthickness of the fluid liner is greater than the first thickness of thefluid liner.
 13. The manifold of claim 11, wherein the portion of thefluid liner permanently bonded to the first inside surface of theelongated member has a longitudinally-extending taper, thelongitudinally-extending taper defining a taper angle between thelongitudinal axis and the third inside surface, the taper angle rangingfrom greater than 0 degrees to less than about 70 degrees measured fromthe longitudinal axis.
 14. The manifold of claim 1, wherein the manifoldis adapted to be connected to a fluid cylinder of a reciprocating pump.15. A manifold through which fluid is adapted to flow, the manifoldcomprising: an elongated member, the elongated member defining alongitudinal axis and a first inside surface; an end cap connected tothe elongated member, the end cap defining a second inside surface; aninternal region at least partially defined by the elongated member andthe end cap; and a fluid liner disposed within the internal region andengaged with each of first and second inside surfaces, the fluid linerdefining a third inside surface within the internal region; wherein thefluid liner dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within theinternal region during fluid flow therethrough; wherein a firstthickness of the fluid liner is defined between the first inside surfaceof the elongated member and the third inside surface of the fluid liner;wherein a second thickness of the fluid liner is defined between thesecond inside surface of the end cap and the third inside surface of thefluid liner; and wherein the second thickness of the fluid liner isgreater than the first thickness of the fluid liner.
 16. The manifold ofclaim 15, wherein the fluid liner is permanently bonded to each of thefirst and second inside surfaces; and wherein the fluid linerdynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internal regionduring fluid flow therethrough while the permanent bond between thefluid liner and each of the first and second inside surfaces ismaintained.
 17. The manifold of claim 15, wherein the portion of thefluid liner engaged with the first inside surface has alongitudinally-extending taper, the longitudinally-extending taperdefining a taper angle between the longitudinal axis and the thirdinside surface, the taper angle ranging from greater than 0 degrees toless than about 70 degrees measured from the longitudinal axis.
 18. Themanifold of claim 15, wherein the elongated member comprises twooutlets; wherein the manifold further comprises two radially-extendingopenings formed through the fluid liner and generally aligned with thetwo outlets, respectively; and wherein the two radially-extendingopenings are axially spaced from each other so that a portion of thefluid liner extends axially between the two radially-extending openings.19. The manifold of claim 18, further comprising: two tubes axiallyspaced from each other and extending from the elongated member, the twotubes defining two fluid passages, respectively, wherein the two fluidpassages are generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively, andthus with the two radially-extending openings, respectively, so thateach of the two fluid passages are in fluid communication with theinternal region; and two helical vanes disposed in the two fluidpassages, respectively.
 20. The manifold of claim 15, furthercomprising: a first plug opening formed through the fluid liner; a firststem extending from the elongated member; and a first bull plug assemblyconnected to the first stem, the first bull plug assembly comprising: ahead; a first liner plug extending from the head and within the firstplug opening; and a first post extending from the head and into thefirst liner plug; wherein the first liner plug dynamically responds topressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough.
 21. A manifold through which fluid is adapted to flow, themanifold comprising: an elongated member, the elongated member defininga longitudinal axis and a first inside surface; an internal region atleast partially defined by the elongated member; a fluid liner disposedwithin the internal region and engaged with the first inside surface ofthe elongated member; a first plug opening formed through the fluidliner; a first stem extending from the elongated member; and a firstbull plug assembly connected to the first stem, the first bull plugassembly comprising a first liner plug extending within the first plugopening; wherein each of the fluid liner and the first liner plugdynamically responds to pressure fluctuations within the internal regionduring fluid flow therethrough.
 22. The manifold of claim 21, furthercomprising: an end cap connected to the elongated member, the end capdefining a second inside surface; wherein the internal region is atleast partially defined by the elongated member and the end cap; whereinthe fluid liner is engaged with the second inside surface of the endcap; wherein the fluid liner defines a third inside surface within theinternal region; wherein a first thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the first inside surface of the elongated member and the thirdinside surface of the fluid liner; wherein a second thickness of thefluid liner is defined between the second inside surface of the end capand the third inside surface of the fluid liner; and wherein the secondthickness of the fluid liner is greater than the first thickness of thefluid liner.
 23. The manifold of claim 21, wherein the fluid liner ispermanently bonded to each of the first and second inside surfaces; andwherein the fluid liner dynamically responds to pressure fluctuationswithin the internal region during fluid flow therethrough while thepermanent bond between the fluid liner and each of the first and secondinside surfaces is maintained.
 24. The manifold of claim 21, wherein theelongated member comprises two outlets; wherein the manifold furthercomprises two radially-extending openings formed through the fluid linerand generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively; and whereinthe two radially-extending openings are axially spaced from each otherso that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially between the tworadially-extending openings.
 25. The manifold of claim 24, furthercomprising: two tubes axially spaced from each other and extending fromthe elongated member, the two tubes defining two fluid passages,respectively, wherein the two fluid passages are generally aligned withthe two outlets, respectively, and thus with the two radially-extendingopenings, respectively, so that each of the two fluid passages are influid communication with the internal region; and two helical vanesdisposed in the two fluid passages, respectively.
 26. The manifold ofclaim 21, wherein the first bull plug assembly further comprises: afirst head from which the first liner plug extends; and a first postextending from the head and into the first liner plug.
 27. A method ofmanufacturing a manifold through which fluid is adapted to flow, themethod comprising: providing an elongated member, the elongated memberat least partially defining an internal region through which the fluidis adapted to flow, a longitudinal axis, and a first inside surface, theelongated member comprising one or more inlets via which the fluid isadapted to flow into the internal region, and one or more outlets viawhich the fluid is adapted to flow out of the internal region; disposinga fluid liner within the internal region; and permanently bonding thefluid liner to the first inside surface of the elongated member; whereinthe fluid liner is adapted to dynamically respond to pressurefluctuations within the internal region during fluid flow therethroughwhile the permanent bond between the fluid liner and the first insidesurface of the elongated member is maintained.
 28. The method of claim27, wherein disposing the fluid liner within the internal regioncomprises: disposing one or more materials within the internal region;and forming the fluid liner from the one or more materials disposedwithin the internal region.
 29. The method of claim 28, wherein thefluid liner is permanently bonded to the first inside surface during,after, or during and after, the fluid liner is formed from the materialdisposed within the internal region.
 30. The method of claim 27, whereinthe one or more outlets of the elongated member comprise two outlets;and wherein the method further comprises: forming two radially-extendingopenings through the fluid liner so that: the two radially-extendingopenings are generally aligned with the two outlets, respectively; andthe two radially-extending openings are axially spaced from each otherso that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially between the tworadially-extending openings.
 31. The method of claim 30, furthercomprising: extending two axially-spaced tubes from the elongatedmember, the two tubes defining two fluid passages, respectively; whereinthe two fluid passages are generally aligned with the tworadially-extending openings, respectively.
 32. The method of claim 31,further comprising: disposing two helical vanes in the two fluidpassages, respectively; wherein the two helical vanes are adapted toinduce vortices in fluid flow through the two fluid passages,respectively.
 33. The method of claim 27, further comprising: forming afirst plug opening through the fluid liner; and extending a first linerplug within the first plug opening.
 34. The method of claim 33, whereinthe first liner plug is adapted to dynamically respond to pressurefluctuations within the internal region during fluid flow therethrough.35. The method of claim 33, further comprising: extending a first stemfrom the elongated member; and connecting a first bull plug assembly tothe first stem, the first plug assembly comprising the first liner plugand a first head from which the first liner plug extends; wherein thefirst liner plug extends within the first plug opening in response toconnecting the first bull plug assembly to the first stem.
 36. Themethod of claim 35, wherein the first plug assembly further comprises afirst post extending from the head and into the first liner plug. 37.The method of claim 33, further comprising: forming a second plugopening through the fluid liner so that: the second plug opening isaxially spaced from the first plug opening, and a portion of the fluidliner extends axially between the first and second plug openings; andextending a second liner plug within the second plug opening.
 38. Themethod of claim 27, wherein the fluid liner comprises a nitrile rubbermaterial; and wherein the fluid liner is permanently bonded to the firstinside surface using at least a vulcanizable adhesive compound.
 39. Themethod of claim 27, further comprising: connecting an end cap to theelongated member, the end cap defining a second inside surface; andpermanently bonding the fluid liner to the second inside surface of theend cap; wherein the fluid liner defines a third inside surface withinthe internal region.
 40. The method of claim 39, wherein the fluid lineris formed so that: a first thickness of the fluid liner is definedbetween the first inside surface of the elongated member and the thirdinside surface of the fluid liner; a second thickness of the fluid lineris defined between the second inside surface of the end cap and thethird inside surface of the fluid liner; and the second thickness of thefluid liner is greater than the first thickness of the fluid liner. 41.The method of claim 39, wherein the fluid liner is formed so that theportion of the fluid liner permanently bonded to the first insidesurface of the elongated member has a longitudinally-extending taper,the longitudinally-extending taper defining a taper angle between thelongitudinal axis and the third inside surface, the taper angle rangingfrom greater than 0 degrees to less than about 70 degrees measured fromthe longitudinal axis.
 42. The method of claim 27, wherein the manifoldis adapted to be connected to a fluid cylinder of a reciprocating pump.43. A manifold through which fluid is adapted to flow, the fluidcontaining entrained solid particulates, the manifold comprising: anelongated member defining a longitudinal axis and a first insidesurface, the elongated member comprising a first outlet; an internalregion at least partially defined by the elongated member; a fluid linerdisposed within the internal region and engaged with the first insidesurface of the elongated member, wherein the fluid liner dynamicallyresponds to pressure fluctuations within the internal region duringfluid flow therethrough; a first tube extending from the elongatedmember, the first tube defining a first fluid passage in fluidcommunication with the internal region via the first outlet; and a firsthelical vane disposed in the first fluid passage to urge the entrainedsolid particulates to flow through the first fluid passage.
 44. Themanifold of claim 43, wherein the elongated member comprises a secondoutlet; and wherein the manifold further comprises first and secondradially-extending openings formed through the fluid liner and generallyaligned with the first and second outlets, respectively; and wherein thefirst and second radially-extending openings are axially spaced fromeach other so that a portion of the fluid liner extends axially betweenthe two radially-extending openings.
 45. The manifold of claim 44,further comprising: a second tube extending from the elongated member,the second tube defining a second fluid passage in fluid communicationwith the internal region via the second outlet and the secondradially-extending opening; and a second helical vane disposed in thesecond fluid passage to urge the entrained solid particulates to flowthrough the second fluid passage.
 46. The manifold of claim 43, furthercomprising: a first plug opening formed through the fluid liner; a firststem extending from the elongated member; and a first bull plug assemblyconnected to the first stem, the first bull plug assembly comprising afirst liner plug extending within the first plug opening; wherein thefirst liner plug dynamically responds to pressure fluctuations withinthe internal region during fluid flow therethrough.
 47. The manifold ofclaim 46, wherein the first bull plug assembly further comprises: afirst head from which the first liner plug extends; and a first postextending from the head and into the first liner plug.
 48. The manifoldof claim 43, further comprising: an end cap connected to the elongatedmember, the end cap defining a second inside surface; wherein theinternal region is at least partially defined by the elongated memberand the end cap; wherein the fluid liner is engaged with the secondinside surface of the end cap; wherein the fluid liner defines a thirdinside surface within the internal region; wherein a first thickness ofthe fluid liner is defined between the first inside surface of theelongated member and the third inside surface of the fluid liner;wherein a second thickness of the fluid liner is defined between thesecond inside surface of the end cap and the third inside surface of thefluid liner; and wherein the second thickness of the fluid liner isgreater than the first thickness of the fluid liner.
 49. The manifold ofclaim 43, wherein the fluid liner is permanently bonded to the firstinside surface; and wherein the fluid liner dynamically responds topressure fluctuations within the internal region during fluid flowtherethrough while the permanent bond between the fluid liner and thefirst inside surface is maintained.